Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Begonia plant named ‘Dana’, characterized by its compact, upright, uniform and freely branching plant habit; strong, thick stems; freely flowering habit with about eight flowers per axillary cyme; fully double intense dark pink flowers that are about 6.6 cm in diameter; dark green leaves; and excellent post-production longevity.

Abstract: Regenerative heat exchangers are described for transferring heat between hot and cold fluids. The heat exchangers have seal-leakage rates significantly less than those of conventional regenerative heat exchangers because the matrix is discontinuously moved and is releasably sealed while in a stationary position. Both rotary and modular heat exchangers are described. Also described are methods for transferring heat between a hot and cold fluid using the discontinuous movement of matrices.

Abstract: A fully automatic and energy efficient lighting control or light switch comprises different settings, preset by a user, and activates all or a portion of at least one bank of lights upon detecting occupants within a room. In one embodiment, the light switch detects doppler-shifted, reflected ultrasonic waves caused by occupant motion within the room. In an automatic mode, the light switch is configured to automatically switch from an initial sensitivity level for detecting motion within a short range therefrom, to a higher sensitivity level for detecting motion anywhere within the room. After the room is empty or no motion is sensed, the light switch is configured to turn the lights off following a variable time delay. The light switch returns to its initial low sensitivity level following a predetermined grace period which begins once the lights are turned off.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention an improved forensic light source comprising a source of light and support structure for supporting the source of light is provided. A light guide having first and second ends is coupled to the source of light at the first end to receive light from the source of light and transmit the light to the second end. The light guide is mounted on the support structure. A filter support member supports a plurality of filters. A movable light directing assembly is mounted on the second end of the light guide for movably supporting the filter support member for movement to a plurality of positions. Each of the positions corresponds to the coupling of a selected one of the filters to the second end, whereby the light is filtered by the selected filter. A heat sink may be coupled to the first end of the light guide.

Abstract: A milk jug with froth-forming device for making cappuccino and the like, including a container body that can be closed with a lid that supports and guides a froth-forming element, which is constituted by a plunger element associated with a rod that protrudes from the lid. The plunger element has a disk-like element formed by a circumferential rim that is connected, by spoke-like arms, to a central hub in which the rod is inserted. The spoke-like arms retain a mesh affecting the entire surface of the disk-like element, and the spoke-like arms decrease in thickness from the hub towards the outer rim to provide flexibility on the outer portion of the disk-like element so as to increase the inclusion of air particles inside the liquid upon a reciprocating motion of the plunger element.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an arrangement intended for radio communication systems and effective in digitalizing and subsequently processing numerically arbitrary radio signals. The signals are represented by composite (complex) vectors which have been subjected to disturbances in the system, such that information in the signals has been lost. This information is restored in its entirety when practising the present invention. For the purpose of solving this problem, the inventive digitalizing arrangement includes a multistage logarithmic amplifier chain (A) in which each stage is connected to a separate detector (D), the output signals of which are added in an adder. The adder output signals are then transmitted to a first A/D-converter (AD1) for digitalizing and converting the amplitude components of the signal.

Abstract: An insulating element for buildings and more particularly, for walls, ceilings and roofs, consists of a sheepswool fleece which is sandwiched between two layers of needled non-woven material consisting of sheepswool. The fleece and the needled non-woven material are connected together by fibers thereof to constitute a unit able to be handled as such.

Abstract: A system and method for making channel assignments in a low earth orbit satellite telephone system wherein Doppler effect is utilized as a parameter in channel assignment. In a first embodiment the satellites orbit in a fixed grid pattern, and in a second embodiment the satellites move in orbits that appear random relative to each other.

Abstract: The cellular telephone data communication system and method involves the use of a mobile data processing interface and a cooperating static data processing interface to effectively transmit data over a cellular telephone system. Each data processing interface includes a processor which operates in the transmitting mode to add an error control correction data format to data received from an external data source. The data is divided into packets and provided to a modem which is uniquely operated to eliminate the action of the modem scramble system and to remain active in spite of a carrier signal loss. The modem is deactivated or disconnected by a disconnect signal from the processor, and when carrier signal loss occurs, this disconnect signal is provided only after the lapse of a delay period without the resumption of the carrier signal.

Abstract: An elbow protection device for an elbow of a bed patient includes a body having a base, first and second elevation pads connected to the base, respectively, and a strap connected to the device and configured to secure the body to the elbow. A covering is connected to an outer surface of the body, the covering including a friction reducing material for permitting free sliding movement of the device over the bed surface with minimal resistance. The elbow protection device is made of a flexible, compressible, breathable foam material, the body including an inner surface having a plurality of flat areas spaced apart from each other in two dimensions by a plurality of dimples extending into the body from the flat areas, and a strap connected to the body and configured to secure the body to the elbow.

Abstract: A combination garment bib system that includes a garment having an absorbent layer backed by a fluid impermeable layer positioned in front of the neck opening of the garment and a bib having an absorbent layer backed by a fluid impermeable layer. The bib is attachable to the garment at the front of the neck opening such that the bib provides the primary protection while the garment provides an addition protective element.

Abstract: A patient garment having enhanced accessibility for easy accessibility to a patient by health care workers. The patient garment having enhanced accessibility includes a body covering. The body covering comprises a torso portion and two sleeve portions fixedly coupled thereto. The body covering has a front side and a back side. The torso portion has a neck opening therein. A plurality of elongate openings is in the body covering. A plurality of closure means selectively open and close the elongate openings. Each of the closure means is fixedly coupled to one of the elongate openings.

Abstract: A garment for a hospital patient is disclosed. The garment has a front piece with a first side, a first shoulder, a second side and a second shoulder, and a back piece with a first edge and a second edge. The first edge of the back piece is sewn to the front piece at a first side and a first shoulder thereof. A plurality of fastening means in pairs is provided at a second side and a second shoulder, and the second edge. Two sleeves are respectively formed at the first and second shoulders. The sleeve at the first shoulder is sewn with the first edge of the second piece. The sleeve at the second side is sewn only with the front piece. An extending part is formed on the front piece and extends backwards from the second shoulder.

Abstract: An integral fishing vest and tackle carrier having elongated front and rear vest panels, each of which includes an upper section and a lower section adapted to be foldable over the upper section, thereby creating a pocketed storage compartment between the upper and lower sections within which fishing tackle may be carried for convenient access. The lower section of each panel is constructed with a guide that is adapted to receive and hold in place at least one tackle carrier with organizing compartments that are easily accessible to the fisherman when the lower section is released and unfolded from the upper section to which it is normally secured. The vest is readily reversible between front and rear panels such that access to either is readily available. The vest may also be optionally constructed as a life vest, with permanent or removable floatation-wear incorporated therein.

Abstract: A nursing blanket and method for covering the torso, and exposed breast of a nursing mother and the head of the feeding infant, to provide privacy and coverage while breast-feeding. The blanket is comprised of a single thickness fabric blanket, the main body or midsection of which is an oval. The ends of the blanket are attached to a shoulder strap on one end, and an arm sleeve on the opposing end. The shoulder strap is comprised of a double thickness of stretchable knit material which is sewn into a narrow strip and curved back on itself to form a loop. This loop fits over the mother's hand and slides up the arm, to be secured on her shoulder, opposite the breast which will be used for nursing. The arm sleeve on the opposing end of the blanket slides over the mothers remaining hand and rests on the forearm. The infant's head rests on the arm which is covered by the sleeve, and the blanket then comes up and over the baby's head, and crosses his body.

Abstract: A nursing cover up includes a body cover having a size adapted for covering at least a chest portion of a mother user and a hanging means for hanging the body cover in front of the mother user. The body cover further includes a peek-a-boo pocket which has a viewing opening formed on a pocket panel that separates the pocket panel into an upper piece and a lower piece. The peek-a-boo pocket includes a shield flap which extends from a bottom portion of the upper piece of the pocket panel to overlappingly position behind an upper portion of the lower piece of the pocket panel for covering an upper portion of a breast of the mother user, and a pocket lip formed at a top edge of the upper portion of the lower piece, so as to define the viewing opening between the shield flap and the pocket lip for the mother user to monitor her baby therethrough while breastfeeding.

Abstract: A necktie with fixing device embodies a simple, self-contained, convenient and more economic way to maintain a necktie in place. The fixing device comprises an anchoring member that is secured to the rear surface of the wide end of the necktie, an elastic member secured to center of the anchoring member, a small magnet that is secured to the end of the elastic member opposite that secured to the anchoring member, and a hook extending from the magnet. The elastic member is long enough to allow the magnet to engage a zipper, belt buckle or other metallic fastening element of a clothing article, and allow the hook to removably engage fastening elements of clothing articles such as zippers, belt buckles and buttons. The combined securing action of the magnet and hook allow the fixing device to maintain the wide end of a necktie in place.

Abstract: The invention provides exemplary athletic, driving and work gloves and methods for their use. In an exemplary embodiment, a flexible athletic glove is provided having a glove body having a palmar side and a dorsal side. A plurality of finger portions and a thumb portion each having a palmar side and a dorsal side are operably attached to said glove body. The glove further comprises at least one resilient pad comprising silicon foam operably attached to the palmar side of said glove body.

Abstract: To prevent a top panel of a crown of a collapsible hat from being crushed and creased, first portions of a frame member extending along a periphery of a brim of the hat are folded to overlap an exterior side of the top panel, and second portions of the frame member are folded to overlap an interior side of the top panel. The frame portions maintain a neat appearance for the top panel even after the hat has been repeatedly collapsed.

Abstract: A hair covering for protecting the hair of a wearer from damage due to exposure to the ultra violet light of a tanning bed. The hair covering is comprised of an outer portion, middle portion and inner portion. The middle portion protects the hair of a wearer from discoloration and other damage because of exposure to the ultra violet light of a tanning bed. Furthermore, the middle portion acts as a barrier to the heat build up that can occur within the hair covering because of the heat generated by ultra violet light in a tanning bed. The outer portion and the inner portion act as additional protection for blocking the heat generated by the ultra violet light of a tanning bed. The hair covering may also have a stretchable band for providing a comfortable and snug fit around the head of a wearer.

Abstract: An assembly for removably attaching an ornament to a sock. The assembly includes a first means for attaching, the first attaching means being affixed to the sock, an ornament, and second means for attaching the ornament to the sock. The second attaching means is affixed to the ornament, and the second attaching means is configured so as to cooperate with and removably attach to the first attaching means to removably attach the ornament to the sock. As broadly described herein, the first and second attaching means may include a variety of attaching means including, for example, snap fasteners, buttons and corresponding buttonholes, hook and loop fasteners, hook-and-eye fasteners, and clasps.

Abstract: The aim of the invention is to produce an overgarment (1) with a pocket (2) in such a way that a pocket mobile telephone (3) can easily be placed in said pocket (2) and is prevented from falling out of the pocket when the wearer is bending down or walking quickly. To this end, the size of the pocket (2) is configured for carrying a mobile telephone (3) and at least one holding strap (8, 14) is provided on the overgarment (1). Said holding strap is attached on the pocket (2) or in the pocket area and at the waist (11) or in the waist area (11.1), running either directly to the waist (11) waist area (11.1) or via the shoulder (10).

Abstract: This invention discloses a garment sleeve liner useful for improving the comfort or insulating ability of garments. Depending on the application, the liner is made variously from silk, polyester, cotton or quilted fabric. The liner is tubular and designed to fit comfortably within and along a garment sleeve. The liner has means for attaching to the garment affixed to the shoulder end of the liner. A useful means for attaching the liner to the garment is several rectangular pieces of Velcro® affixed to the shoulder end of the liner.

Abstract: A unique combination is disclosed comprising an elasticized headband having perspiration absorbing padding and a flexible sun lens, the sun lens being removably connected to the perspiration absorbing padding by hook and loop elements, the padding and configuration of the lens coacting to generally provide improved intersection of sun rays.

Abstract: A toilet bowl plunger for use with a new narrow throat 1.6 gallon toilet that can be used equally well with older toilets. The head portion of the plunger is a pleated bellows consisting of two sections, a conically tapering section and a constant average diameter section. The conically tapering section has larger diameter at the rear end of the head and tapers down to a narrower diameter in a direction away from the rear end of the head. The bellows then continues into the constant diameter section in a direction away from the rear end and towards the front end of the head. The constant diameter section resembles an elephant-like trunk or nose. When inserted into the toilet bowl, the constant diameter section of the bellows head penetrates into the throat, while a forward end of the tapered section seats over the outer perimeter of the mouth of the throat. The constant diameter section or nose of the head curves to follow the path of the throat.

Abstract: Flexible PVC hose can be used with toilet systems in vehicles, such as boats, recreational vehicles, etc, or at pumpout stations. The hose includes about 40-55% by weight PVC resin, and at least 10% by weight of an EVA high molecular weight plasticizer. The hose also typically includes a low molecular weight plasticizer, stabilizer, lubricant, filler (such as 5-20% by weight dense filler like calcium carbonate), and pigment. The hose typically will not fail (that is will not transmit odor) for the life of the toilet system, or mechanical life of the hose.

Abstract: A vacuum waste system having reduced noise levels associated therewith. The vacuum waste system includes a sanitary unit for initially receiving waste. An intermediate container is connected to the sanitary unit by a first sewer pipe and a first sewer valve. A receptacle is connected to the intermediate container by a second sewer pipe and a second sewer valve. The system also includes a vacuum pump for generating vacuum in the second sewer pipe, intermediate container, and first sewer pipe. Transfer of waste from the sanitary unit to the receptacle is performed in two stages. In a first stage, the first valve is opened and the second valve is closed so that vacuum transports the waste from the sanitary unit to the intermediate container. In the second stage, the first valve is closed and the second valve is opened to transfer the waste from the intermediate container through the second sewer pipe.

Abstract: A combined receptacle and waterfall unit for a pool or the like, comprising a lower receptacle portion, an upper receptacle portion positioned above and within the lower receptacle portion to define a space therebetween, and a water dispensing unit positioned in the space between the upper and lower receptacle portions and being constructed to dispense water like a waterfall laterally outwardly adjacent to or near the substantially aligned outer peripheral edges of the upper and lower receptacle portions. The upper receptacle portion may be shaped to be used as a planter. A lighting device may be positioned on or near the water dispensing unit to illuminate the water being dispensed therefrom.

Abstract: The present disclosure sets forth an improved shower curtain rod. It is adapted for use with a enclosure defined by left and right end walls, and a back splash wall defining a bath tub enclosure above a bath tub. The bath tub is oval or elliptical and fits in an oval and elliptical hole in a horizontal deck. The shower curtain rod of the present disclosure has ends connected with a curving middle portion which ends are anchored at end fittings. There is, between the two ends, a curving portion which conforms with an oval or elliptical bath tub shape.

Abstract: A sealing member is provided for a bathtub. A conventional plate is coupled to the wall of a bathtub and covers a drain opening formed therein. The plate is continuous except for an overflow opening which accommodates the free flow of water from the bathtub through the drain opening and down the overflow drain of the bathtub. The sealing member sealingly engages the plate and the bathtub wall to prevent water from flowing through the overflow opening of the plate and down the overflow drain of the bathtub. The sealing member includes an annular lip which fits snugly within the overflow opening of the plate. In an alternate embodiment, a bypass opening is formed in the sealing member at a height greater than that of the overflow opening of the plate. A channel formed within the sealing member extends between the bypass opening and the overflow drain. Water may then enter the sealing member at a height greater than the overflow opening and be channeled through the overflow drain and out of the bathtub.

Abstract: A bedding product comprising a conventional box spring and a pair of support members secured to the inside of the frame of the box spring. Each of the support members comprises an angle element and a pair of brackets from which supporting, adjustable feet depend. The adjustable feet are fixed in position using wing nuts. By loosening the wing nuts and rotating the adjustable feet, the height of the box spring may be adjusted.

Abstract: An expandable sleeping bag comprising a modified draft tube design incorporating a draft tube expansion segment and expansion zipper which are used to expand the circumferential measurement of the sleeping bag's inner lining and outer shell.

Abstract: An enclosure bed apparatus including a bed having a mattress supported on a bed frame, and wheels rotatably supported at a bottom thereof so as to rollably support the mattress on a floor, an enclosure frame extending over the mattress and having a lower portion affixed to the bed frame such that a bottom of the legs is supported a distance above the floor, and an enclosure affixed to the enclosure frame so as to extend over and around the mattress. A clamp is used so as to connect the lower portion of the enclosure frame to the bed frame. The enclosure has a top and a plurality of side walls and a bottom. The bottom of the enclosure is interposed between the mattress and the bed frame. The top of the enclosure extends over and around the upper structure of the enclosure frame.

Abstract: A protective cover for the foot of a mattress comprises a web of preferably clear plastic that is rectangular and generally elongate. The web wraps around the foot of the mattress overlapping itself beneath the mattress where it is tightly secured to itself by hook and loop fastening material. Attached to the web along an upper edge thereof at the end of the mattress is an apron which hangs down covering the mattress end. The web serves to protect the mattress from soiling during testing by a consumer while the apron serves to provide for information indicia about the mattress brand, style and the like.

Abstract: A patient-support apparatus comprises a frame, a patient-support surface supported by the frame, and at least one mounting bracket coupled to the frame. The at least one mounting bracket includes a portion that is adapted to couple to a fracture frame.

Abstract: A device for positioning patients for diagnostic and therapeutic uses having, in particular a horizontally disposed bearer element for the patient (i.e., such as a table). In addition, at least one inflatable or pump-up-able cushion is provided with which the position of the patient, or specific regions of the patient's body, can be altered.

Abstract: An adjustable bed is provided having a lower frame (1) and an upper frame (3) mounted for longitudinal movement on the lower frame. A supporting surface (7, 8, 9, 10), including a back support member (7), is connected to the upper frame for pivotal movement about a transverse axis. The back support (7) is adjustable by an adjustment mechanism comprising two pairs of pivotally interconnected arms (17, 19), one of each pair being also pivoted to the lower frame (1) and the other arm of each pair being pivoted to the upper frame (3). The pivotal interconnections (18, 20) between the arms bear on the underside of the back support members, and a drive mechanism (13, 14, 15, 16) produces longitudinal movement of the upper frame with respect to the lower frame and, simultaneously, vertical movement of the pivotal interconnection (18).

Abstract: An apparatus (20) operable as both a vestment (22) and a litter (24) is provided. The apparatus (20) has a flexible back panel (26) serving as a back (28) for the vestment (22) and as a bed (30) for the litter (24). A front (40) of the vestment (22) is made up of a flexible left front panel (42), a flexible right front panel (44), and a fastener (46). The apparatus (20) includes a pair of sectioned support poles (54). When the apparatus (20) is configured as a litter (24), a cross member (58) is removably coupled between the support poles (54), and a support device (112) supports the bed (30) of the litter (24) from the support poles (54). A safety strap (60) secures a victim (124) to the bed (30) for transport.

Abstract: A travel pillow having an interior storage pocket for carrying pajamas and other overnight articles comprises an outer casement encompassing an inner compartment. There is an opening in the casement that provides an entrance to a pocket. Attached at the entrance of the casement and extending into the inner compartment are pocket lining walls. These walls are joined to the casement at the entrance of the pocket and at the perimeter of the sides and bottom of the pocket linings to form the pocket extending into the inner compartment. Surrounding the pocket on either side and generally filling the inter compartment is padding material as conventionally used in a pillow. The pocket opening may contain closure means such as a zipper or snaps to secure the pocket in a closed position when being carried. Handles or strap means may be located on the pillow to facilitate carrying.

Abstract: A travel pillow having an arch-shaped padded cushion surrounding an inner perimeter containing less padding so that the head of a child may be placed within the larger arch for support, with said cushion contained within a cover having two straps extending downward below the waist of the user to form two end points which attach to each other with one placed under and one over the child's seat belt.

Abstract: A wheelchair cushion system for alternating the pressure points upon the individual's body and providing adequate ventilation to the individual's body in contact with the cushion thereby significantly reducing pressure sores. The inventive device includes a battery, a power switch electrically connected to the battery, a pump timer electrically connected to the power switch and to a pump, a first cycle timer electrically connected to the power switch and a first valve wherein the first valve is fluidly connected to the pump, a second cycle timer electrically connected to the power switch and a second valve wherein the second valve is fluidly connected to the pump, a plurality of first pockets fluidly connected to said first valve, and a plurality of second pockets fluidly connected to the second valve.

Abstract: In operation of a support for a patient's body, used in medical or veterinary treatment, which applies alternating-pressure to the body in order to reduce or minimize the risk of pressure sores caused by prolonged pressure on the skin, inflatable cells of the support are inflated and deflated cyclically in a predetermined sequence. To provide improved effect in relieving or preventing pressure sores, the cells are deflated in the sequence in such a manner that the interior pressure falls from 10 mmHg (135 Pa) to 0 mmHg in a time period of not more than 15 s. Preferably the interior pressure falls to below 0 mmHg (ambient atmospheric pressure). A vacuum pump or pumps may be employed to achieve this result.